Lake District, UK

We spent a weekend outside of London at the Lake District smack in the middle of Autumn. And let me tell you, it was just one of those weekends that feels absolutely perfect. It was relaxing, inspiring, beautiful, peaceful, and just so many other things we needed. I'm sure it would be a great place to visit at many times of the year, but my love of Autumn made late October a great match for spending time in nature.

DO

Drive the narrow roads over rolling hills, take in the views, wave at sheep, explore the walking and hiking trails, sample the local foods, spend the afternoon like a local at a pub, breath in fresh air from the surrounding trees, sit by a lake and of course find a quiet place to read or paint. That pretty much sums up how we spent our weekend escape.

Windermere Lake - take a stroll by the shore of this massive lake
Elter Water and Loughrigg Tarn - these two smaller lakes are surrounded by casual walking trails. Start at the Britannia Inn for a nice loop. We sat at Loughrigg Tarn for some time watching the local fisherman and sheep. Stop by the restaurant, bakery, shop called Chesters by the River, we shared a fruit scone and of course morning coffee - I can't think of a much better mid-walk snack.
Ullswater - another great lake for hiking, drive over Kirkstone pass and on the decent, enjoy the quickly changing scenery. Park across from the White Lion in Patterdale and walk the loop on the south east side of Ullswater. The views are spectacular and the trail even offers a scramble up to a vista where we spent some quiet time taking in the autumn landscape. Just outside Patterdale about there is a farm that sells wool from the sheep.
Bowness-on-Windermere and Windermere - these are probably the largest towns in the Lake District. They feel a bit touristy but also a nice place to walk around in the evenings.

Food & Drinks

We had some of the best British food here in the Lake District. I think party due to the cold weather, we were totally in the mood for heavier British meals. And the pubs here did not disappoint. Here are the places I would visit again.

The Brown Horse - definitely the winner, the vibe was just right - old, cosy, and friendly. We stopped here the first night for a fish platter and steak pudding (the savory kind). It was so amazing we had to finish it off with a sticky toffee pudding. We tried to come back a second time for Sunday roast but it was too crowded - next time!
Drunken Duck Inn - another totally local place up on the hillside above Windermere lake, even in the afternoons this place was packed with families and dogs. Cheeky afternoon pint? Sure!
Hooked - delicious and simple fish restaurant in Windermere
The Masons Arms - another inn, pub combo tucked up on a hill found by winding roads, sit outside under the heater to take in the view over the valley and get a stew or meat roast with a beer.
The Angel In - cosy firelight place for an evening wine in Bowness

Stay

We stayed at a lovely B&B called Rum Doodle. Although it wasn't as remote as I was hoping, the eclectic decorations and homey vibes made it perfect for our relaxing weekend. Each morning homemade breakfast is served in a sunlight dining room. It was also a very accessible location and since it was located in a small town we could walk around for dinner and drinks in the evenings.